Mahaicony dormitory needs repairs, supplies

A dormitory in Mahaicony, Region Five (Demerara-Mahaica) which houses 20 Indigenous students, is in dire need of repairs and food supplies. The students who currently reside at the facility age between 12 and 16 and are all from the Indigenous community of Moraikabi, and currently attend Mahaicony, Hope, Belladrum, Novar and Bygeval Secondary Schools. Four of the 20 students are preparing to write the Caribbean examinations.
Guyana Times has been told that even though 25 pounds of fish, one bag of potatoes and a quantity of sausages were supplied over a week ago, all that currently remains was some of the potatoes. This publication was also told that one kind-spirited citizen donated three trays of eggs and five packs of sausages on Friday. It was noted that this is insufficient to feed the 22 persons who reside there, which includes two guardians.
While this batch of students only moved into the facilities in October, this publication was also told of the deteriorating conditions at the dormitory. It was related that one side of the compound’s fence is damaged and repairs are needed to the piping system.
This newspaper has been made aware that officials from the region and the Education Ministry visited the facility over two weeks ago and it was promised that the many concerns would be addressed. However, the situation remains unchanged as there have been no follow-up visits. Guyana Times was on Saturday unable to contact Region Five Chairman Vickchand Ramphal.
Moraikobai, the Amerindian village home to the 20 students, is located 10 kilometres up the Mahaicony River.